Study finds South Africa’s green building growth centered in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Sandton
A study tracking 510 green building certifications in South Africa between 2011 and 2023 reveals growth in green building upgrades, predominantly in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Sandton. Most certifications are mid-level, with few achieving the highest rating, and some low ratings suggest possible greenwashing. The trend mainly involves upgrading existing buildings rather than new constructions.
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Green building upgrades in South Africa have increased steadily from 2011 to 2023, but remain largely concentrated in major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Sandton, according to a recent study by sustainable housing researchers published by The Conversation Africa.
The study analyzed 510 buildings that received green building certification during this period. It found that most green building activity involves upgrading existing structures rather than constructing new green buildings, indicating that retrofitting older properties with green features is becoming a key driver of sustainable development.
While the majority of buildings earned mid-level green ratings, the highest certification level of six stars remains rare. Some buildings received low ratings, raising concerns about potential greenwashing—where developers may exaggerate environmental benefits.
South Africa’s Green Star rating system, introduced in 2008 by the Green Building Council South Africa, measures a building’s performance in energy, water, and resource efficiency, as well as carbon emissions reduction. The system applies to new and existing buildings, interiors, and neighborhood developments.
The study highlights the need to further assess the value that green upgrades and certifications add to South Africa’s existing property market, especially as the country seeks sustainable solutions to its housing and urban development challenges.